Hot times in forecast

Weekend warm-up could push highs above 100 degrees

Weekend warm-up could push highs above 100 degrees

July 21, 2007|By Emily Arthur-Richardt, American News Writer

Air conditioners might get a good workout over the next few days as temperatures rise to around 100 degrees. “Expect the air conditioner to run for a long period of time,” said Scott Doering, a meteorologist from the National Weather Service in Aberdeen. “Hopefully, people will get out to the new aquatic center and enjoy it.” Doering said the high will be in the lower 90s today in Aberdeen, around 99 on Sunday and up to 100 on Monday. Around the Missouri River, the temperatures will be closer to 100 to 105. The last time Aberdeen reached 100 degrees was on July 7, when the temperature was 103. “Basically, it's a nice big ridge of high pressure allowing plenty of warm moisture to come into the area,” Doering said. “It's going to stay hot through most of the middle section of the country through the middle of next week.” Still, the temperatures don't compare to last July, Doering said. And they shouldn't threaten any records, he said. July 2006 was one of the hottest on record. The average high temperature was 91. This year, the average high is 84, although that number may rise after the weekend and the beginning of next week. Doering said the humidity, which was supposed to increase Friday night, and the lack of moisture in the forecast, should create a hot, steamy atmosphere. “The unfortunate part is that there is no chance for rain the next seven days,” he said. “There are several places that need rain and we're drying up quickly.” Reporter Emily Arthur-Richardt; (605) 622-2314 or 1-800-925-4100 ext. 314; earthur@aberdeennews.com